Lillian French

June 25th, 1936 - July 10th, 2025

With deep respect and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a beloved Elder, Lillian French, who journeyed to the Spirit World on July 10th, 2025, at the age of 89.

Born in Takla Landing in 1936, Lillian was a proud member of Takla Nation and a cherished matriarch in her family and community. She carried within her the knowledge, traditions, and language of her people, and lived her life guided by the values of love, resilience, and connection to the land.

Throughout her life, Lillian was a beacon of strength and grace. She raised generations with wisdom passed down from her ancestors, teaching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren the importance of family, ceremony, and honouring the earth. Her stories, laughter, and quiet strength will echo through those who knew and loved her. A skilled hunter, beader, and cook, Lillian gave generously of her gifts, helping to keep culture and tradition alive even in the face of hardship. She witnessed many changes in her lifetime and met them with dignity and a steadfast spirit.

Lillian is predeceased by Remi Polard, her parents, Johnny and Madelin, her brothers, Mark, William, Charlie, Teddy and her sisters, Mary Josephine, and Christine and two of her children, Rose and Nick, as well as her great granddaughter, Winter. She leaves behind a large legacy of love in her children Audrey (Rick), Mona, Lance, and Marcel, her grandchildren David, Ryan (Joyce), Marielle, Milan, Connie, Cathleen (Jordan), Mason, Brandy (Tony), Kiri, Chad, Gabrielle, Glenda (Josh), and Taylor (Brandon). Lillian also had many great grandchildren including, Roxanne, Maximus, Jerry, Kia, Kallie, Randy, Brooklyn, Reese, Briar, Beckett, Autumn, Dylan, Dominic, Damien, Katy - May, Hailey, Aiden, Jaelynn, Aurora, and Noah. As well as her sister Martha, her extended family, and all those whose lives she touched.

A sacred wake, ceremony, and potlatch will be held in her honour according to the customs of her people. Her spirit will walk with the ancestors now, and her memory will forever live in our hearts.

May her journey be gentle, and may the ancestors welcome her with open arms.

Mussi Cho (Thank you) for the support during this difficult time.